Basic food gifts

Basics

Glenn Koenig / Los Angeles Times

Tostapane Why is bruschetta always perfect in Italy? Because they toast their bread on one of these, a thin, square sheet of perforated stainless steel, topped with a wire mesh screen. Pinpoints of flame work through the tiny holes, lightly charring the bread, crisping the surfaces without drying out the interior. $29.95, http://www.toastercentral.com

Tostapane Why is bruschetta always perfect in Italy? Because they toast their bread on one of these, a thin, square sheet of perforated stainless steel, topped with a wire mesh screen. Pinpoints of flame work through the tiny holes, lightly charring the bread, crisping the surfaces without drying out the interior. $29.95, http://www.toastercentral.com (Glenn Koenig / Los Angeles Times)

Mortar and pestle Smart cooks would choose a mortar and pestle any day over a spice grinder, or even a blender or food processor. Pounding with a pestle crushes and pulverizes spices, herbs and other ingredients to release more of the oils. Prices vary, but you can find a good one for less than $50, widely available

Mortar and pestle Smart cooks would choose a mortar and pestle any day over a spice grinder, or even a blender or food processor. Pounding with a pestle crushes and pulverizes spices, herbs and other ingredients to release more of the oils. Prices vary, but you can find a good one for less than $50, widely available (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times)